Category: Newcastle News

A new benchmark for playground upgrades will be set this month when City of Newcastle starts work on the replacement and enhancement of the Lambton Park play space.

City of Newcastle has invested more than $1.1 million across six neighbourhood playground projects this year, the highest number completed in a 12 month period since the annual Playground Replacement Program began almost a decade ago.

 Artist’s impression of the planned upgrades for the Lambton Park playground, shown from an aerial view. In addition, City of Newcastle is also on track this year to deliver the city’s first regional-level inclusive play space and waterplay area in Foreshore Park.

Executive Manager Community and Recreation, Lynn Duffy, said the work at Lambton Park reflects City of Newcastle’s long-term approach to providing quality, inclusive recreation spaces for the community.

“Lambton Park has been a much-loved play space in Newcastle for decades,” Ms Duffy said.

“These upgrades will enhance existing equipment, introduce new play elements and support the enjoyment of the playground for children and families for years to come.

“During the life of our annual renewal program we have upgraded 34 local playgrounds, ensuring facilities remain safe, fun and engaging for children across Newcastle.”

The upgrades will be delivered in two stages to ensure part of the playground remains accessible during construction. The commencing works will form stage one and are expected to be completed mid-year, with stage two scheduled to follow later this year.

Stage one will introduce a range of new equipment designed primarily for children aged two to eight years, including a double swing and nest swing, a small trampoline, spinner, rocker and a main play structure featuring a slide and climbing nets.

The equipment sits amongst mature trees, providing extensive natural shade throughout the park. Inclusive design elements have been incorporated at ground level such as voice tubes and a role-play shop to support users with physical access needs. 

The upgraded playground will sit alongside City of Newcastle’s recent redevelopment of a former 1940s Baby Health Centre. The building is set to reopen its doors as First Light Café on 22 April and will provide access from the rear of the cafe to the playground with a ramp for families, parents with prams and people with mobility needs. 

The renewal and upgrade of play equipment at Lambton Park follows the delivery of upgrades at Whistler Parade Reserve in Maryland last month, where new equipment including a see-saw, spinner, rocker, bridges and slides were installed.

City of Newcastle has also delivered improvements across four other sites this financial year, with Beauford Avenue Reserve in Maryland receiving a new playground and a half‑court basketball area, while updated play equipment was installed at Stockton Swimming Centre.

Upgrades were also completed at Johnson Park in Lambton and Morpeth Road Reserve in Waratah West.

Police are appealing for assistance to locate a man wanted on an outstanding warrant.

Kyle Quayle, aged 35, is wanted on an outstanding for being Unlawfully At Large.

Quayle was erroneously released from a correctional centre on Tuesday 14 April 2026 whilst serving a sentence for stealing and assault related offences.

Officers from Newcastle City Police District have released an image of Quayle as inquiries continue to locate him.

Quayle is described as being Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, 180cm, medium build, black hair, brown eyes and is unshaven.

He is believed to be in the Newcastle area.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man reported missing from the Lake Macquarie area.

Kobi Hayward, aged 24, was last seen at a hospital in Morisset, shortly after 10am on Monday (13 April 2026).

When he could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for his welfare.

Kobi is described as being of Caucasian appearance, between 170cm to 180cm tall, of medium build, with black hair and is unshaven.

He was last seen wearing a grey/black Nike jumper, tracksuit pants, a black beanie and Ugg boots.

Kobi is known to frequent the Charlestown areas.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man reported missing from the Lake Macquarie area.

Police have been told 19-year-old Lucas Dawes was last known to be in Windale in early February 2026.

When he could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for his welfare.

Lucas is described as being of Caucasian appearance, between 160cm to 170cm tall, of thin build, with brown hair.

He is known to frequent the Windale and Hamilton South areas.

More than 2,200 people have had their say on how City of Newcastle should respond to threats to the coastline between Bar Beach and Merewether, demonstrating strong community interest in the future of the Southern Beaches.

A consultation report, released today, outlines feedback on a range of proposed management options including mass sand nourishment, protection structures like seawalls and managed retreat.

The results show that while the community holds diverse opinions on how risks such as erosion and sea level rise should be managed, there is clear recognition of the challenges facing this stretch of coastline and broad agreement that action is needed.

No single management option attracted overwhelming support.

However, City of Newcastle’s Liveable Cities Strategic Advisory Committee Chair Cr Joel Pringle said it was encouraging the consultation gave the participants an opportunity to hear and understand the seriousness of the risks and the complexity of responding to them.

“Newcastle is known for its sandy beaches, world-renowned surf breaks and magnificent coastline,” Cr Pringle said.

“Our community values these places deeply and the consultation shows they recognise impacts that climate change is already having on our coastline, and that this will intensify into the future.

“The feedback shows that managing coastal risk isn’t simple. Especially where significant interventions might be required.

“It involves balancing community values and expectations with technical feasibility, environmental responsibility, economic sustainability and broader social impacts for current and future generations. And also, as this piece of work does, bringing local residents on the journey of understanding with us.”

City of Newcastle is developing a long-term Coastal Management Program (CMP) for the area between Nobbys Headland and Glenrock Lagoon, collectively known as the Southern Beaches.

As part of this process, community members were asked to consider potential management options for the area between Bar Beach and Merewether, which is considered at most immediate risk from coastal erosion and other coastal hazards.

Engagement was strong across Newcastle, with more than 800 people participating in nine in-person consultation events. Online engagement included around 430 responses to an online poll and almost 1000 responses to the online survey, along with seven detailed submissions from key stakeholders and community members.

The feedback highlighted a wide spectrum of perspectives. Mass sand nourishment was the least favoured option overall, with participants raising concerns about cost, effectiveness, environmental impacts, longevity and ongoing maintenance requirements. 

Protection structures such as seawalls were supported by some respondents for their perceived ability to retain existing assets, access and amenity.

Where managed retreat was supported, it was often promoted as a more sustainable, adaptive and environmentally responsible long‑term response to coastal hazards, particularly in the context of a changing climate.

City of Newcastle Executive Manager Environment & Sustainability Marnie Kikken said the consultation reinforced there is no single management option that will meet all expectations.

“This consultation has shown that while there is strong alignment around the need to protect our coastline, people prioritise different options to do so,” Ms Kikken said.

“Comments reflected a wide range of sometimes competing views about infrastructure retention, environmental protection, traffic impacts, governance, cost, and the role of expert advice versus community input.

“That diversity of views is an important part of community engagement and we’re pleased to see that most participants are highly aware of the complex issues facing our Southern Beaches. 

“Our role is to carefully consider all of this feedback alongside rigorous technical, environmental and economic assessments, as well as the State Government requirements we must meet, to ensure decisions are responsible, defensible and in the best long-term interests of the whole community.”

City of Newcastle will continue working through the feedback in developing the Southern Beaches Coastal Management Program.. 

Visit City of Newcastle’s Have Your Say page to find out more and read the detailed consultation report.

Almost 50 years of raising money, toys and awareness for families in need has earned Big John Young Newcastle’s greatest acknowledgement after being named a Freeman of the City today.

Since coordinating the first Bikers for Kids Newcastle Toy Run in 1978, Big John has dedicated decades of his life to helping the event grow into one of the region’s most well-known and largest charity drives, with more than 13,000 motorcycle riders turning out in support in 2025.

New Freeman of the City Big John Young with Cr Declan Clausen.Councillor Declan Clausen presented Big John Young with the honour at a special event at City Hall, surrounded by family, friends and fellow Freemen.

Cr Clausen said Big John’s contribution to charity and community across the region has been remarkable, touching the lives of thousands of people.

“We take it as a given that once a year, our streets are filled by thousands of motorcycles in the name of raising money, but it wouldn’t have ever happened without Big John,” Cr Clausen said.

“His commitment to bringing the community together to ensure disadvantaged children and families have a present under the Christmas tree to unwrap or the extra support they need has been monumental.

“Big John has become an advocate for dozens of charities and organisations across Newcastle and the builder of a vast community fundraising network across motorcycle clubs, businesses, charities, and volunteers.”

Big John’s charity efforts, which earned him a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2015 Queen’s Birthday Honours, have also included raising money for organisations such as the Salvation Army, John Hunter Children’s Hospital, Camp Quality, Ronald McDonald House, Westpac Rescue Helicopter, and the NBN 3 Newcastle Telethon.

With a heart as big as his impressive six foot seven stature, Big John said he was honoured and humbled to be named Newcastle’s newest Freeman.

“I’m proud to have been able to use my presence and reputation to bring the community together, raise awareness and funds for charities, and most importantly, support families and children that have needed a little extra help,” Big John said.

“The Newcastle Toy Run is my greatest legacy. We started with about 30 participants in the late 1970s, and last year in 2025 had 13,000 motorcycles with thousands more lining the streets to raise money and awareness for disadvantaged families and children across the region.

“Newcastle and its people have shaped the person that I am today, and this city taught me the value of looking out for one another and believing that acts of kindness can make a big difference in the lives of others.

“Our motto is that every child deserves to smile, and a child’s smile will light the world. I’m proud to have helped make our world a brighter place.”

The Freeman of the City award is Newcastle’s highest honour, conferred upon Novocastrians for outstanding achievement and service to the city or to humanity.

Big John joins an esteemed list of 21 other Novocastrians to be named Freeman of the City, including civic leader Carol Duncan OAM, Surfest co-founder Warren Smith, and scientist and researcher Laureate Professor Roger Smith.

Police are appealing for information after an assault and attempted robbery in the State’s north yesterday.
About 5.25pm yesterday (Sunday 12 April 2026), NSW Ambulance paramedics were called to a carpark on Cowper Street, Wallsend, following reports of an assault.

A 59-year-old man was treated by paramedics for non-life-threatening injuries before he was taken to hospital for further treatment.
About 12pm today (Monday 13 April 2026), the man attended Waratah Police Station to report the incident and officers attached to Newcastle
Police District commenced an investigation.

Police were told an unknown man demanded the 59-year-old man’s property and when he refused, he was allegedly assaulted.
As inquiries continue, police would like to speak with a man they believe may be able to assist with inquiries.
He is described as being about 180cm tall, who was wearing black and red coloured clothing and was last seen at the intersection of Cowper and Murnin Streets.

A critical incident investigation has been declared after the death of a man in the State’s north.

About 9.35am on Sunday 12 April 2026, emergency services were called to a unit on Ocean Street, Mereweather, following reports of a concern for welfare, however, were unable to raise the occupant.

Officers attached to Newcastle City Police District continued inquiries.

Today (Tuesday 14 April 2026), police reattended the unit and located a 46-year-old man deceased inside the property.

A crime scene has been established and a Critical Incident Team from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District will lead the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The investigation will be reviewed by the Professional Standards Command and oversighted by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC).

A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

A critical incident investigation has been declared after the death of a man in the State’s north.

About 9.35am on Sunday 12 April 2026, emergency services were called to a unit on Ocean Street, Mereweather, following reports of a concern for welfare, however, were unable to raise the occupant.

Officers attached to Newcastle City Police District continued inquiries.

Today (Tuesday 14 April 2026), police reattended the unit and located a 46-year-old man deceased inside the property.

A crime scene has been established and a Critical Incident Team from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District will lead the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The investigation will be reviewed by the Professional Standards Command and oversighted by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC).

A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

City of Newcastle will kick off its annual Youth Week program by celebrating an initiative that has been bringing people together through their love of Young Adult fiction for the past five years.

Avid readers are invited to join award-winning author Gary Lonesborough tonight at a special event acknowledging the fifth anniversary of Newcastle Libraries’ Young Adult Book Club.

Young Adult Book Club founder Danielle Hilliard celebrates the club’s five-year anniversary with members attending in-person and online at Newcastle City Library.The author talk will mark the start of City of Newcastle’s 2026 Youth Week activities, which include free workshops and performances delivered in partnership with young people and local community organisations.

Youth Council Standing Committee member Councillor Paige Johnson said Youth Week is about recognising young people and the important role they play in our city.

“City of Newcastle supports young people all year round, from creative programs like the Young Adult Book Club, leadership opportunities with the Youth Council and grant funding for youth-led climate action projects, to the annual program of Youth Week events and activities,” Cr Johnson said.

“We’re committed to creating spaces where young Novocastrians feel safe to connect, create and be themselves.”

The Young Adult Book Club was established in 2021 and meets monthly at Newcastle City Library, attracting between 10-15 people online and in-person each session.

It is open to people of all ages with a love of Young Adult fiction, although the majority of participants are high school and university students from the Newcastle area. 

Club founder and Library Customer Service Officer Danielle Hilliard said the program has become an important space for young people to feel connected and supported. 

“The club is deliberately relaxed and welcoming, people can talk, listen or just enjoy being there,” Mrs Hilliard said. 

“What makes it special is the sense of trust and community that’s developed. Seeing friendships form and knowing people have found a safe space where they feel comfortable and included has been incredibly rewarding.

“It’s fantastic to be able to celebrate this milestone moment for the book club ahead of the wider program of Youth Week events.”

NSW Youth Week 2026 is a statewide initiative that runs from 16 to 26 April with the theme Dream, Dare, Do.

City of Newcastle’s Youth Week celebrations, which are supported by a grant from the NSW Office of Youth, will continue on Thursday 17 April with the Future Makers event at Newcastle Museum.

The free event will showcase youth-led live music, hands-on creative workshops, skateboard demonstrations and opportunities for young people to make, write and design together. 

Live performances will be delivered by emerging young artists Rose White, Evan Worgan and Filthy E and the Clean Teens, alongside creative activities including badge-making, blackout poetry, origami, upcycled fashion and a collaborative art installation led by local artist Ken O’Regan, which will be displayed at Wallsend Library. 

The Future Makers program will also include a creative writing workshop, Surviving Dystopia, inspired by the Museum’s Model Newcastle exhibition, as well as a switch gaming workshop for video game enthusiasts. 

Director Museum Archive Libraries and Learning Julie Baird said the Youth Week program reflects City of Newcastle’s focus on access, participation and youth led cultural spaces.

“Youth Week allows us to deliver free activities, workshops and performances developed in collaboration with young people,” Ms Baird said.

“By activating places like libraries and Newcastle Museum, we’re creating welcoming cultural spaces that support youth creativity, connection and wellbeing, while highlighting the diversity and innovation of youth culture in Newcastle.”

The Youth Week program will wrap up with a free skate competition at Wallsend Park on Saturday 25 April featuring multiple divisions including girls, young entrants and non-binary skaters. Grundy’s Skate Store will be facilitating workshops and will partner with Globe to give away $2000 worth of prizes on the day. 

In addition to the official Youth Week events, City of Newcastle will also be helping school-aged youth shift into a higher gear when it comes to cycling skills, bike safety and creative expression, with nine free hands-on workshops on offer next week.

The DIY Maintenance workshop on 14 April focuses on practical skills to keep bikes in safe working order. Students will learn how to complete basic safety checks, repair punctures, maintain tyres and chains, and identify when professional servicing is required.  

The City Riding workshops (16 and 19 April) provide real-world riding experience, helping students build confidence on local streets. Participants will learn about road rules, route planning, safe positioning and how to ride predictably in shared environments.

Students can also take part in creative workshops delivered by local artists Yvette Ten-Bohmer, Jane Lander, and Aksara Harriram (April 14-16), which invite participants to reflect on movement, place and personal experience, transforming everyday travel into meaningful artworks.

Registrations for the cycling workshops are essential, with more details available on City of Newcastle’s website. The sessions are being delivered with support from the NSW Government through the Holiday Break Program.  

For more information about City of Newcastle’s Youth Week program visit Youth Week 2026 and the Young Adult Book Club.